what are the primary causes of respiratory acidosis

ATI LPN

PN ATI Comprehensive Predictor

1. What are the primary causes of respiratory acidosis?

A. Hypoventilation and lung disease
B. Hyperventilation and pneumonia
C. Increased oxygen saturation and tachypnea
D. Dehydration and hypoxia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypoventilation and lung disease. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an accumulation of CO2 in the body due to inadequate ventilation. Hypoventilation, which reduces the elimination of CO2, and lung diseases that impair gas exchange are the primary causes. Choice B is incorrect because hyperventilation, not hypoventilation, leads to respiratory alkalosis, not acidosis. Choice C is incorrect because increased oxygen saturation and tachypnea do not directly cause respiratory acidosis. Choice D is incorrect as dehydration and hypoxia do not typically lead to respiratory acidosis.

2. A home health nurse is preparing for an initial visit with an older adult client who lives alone. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Educate the client about their current medical diagnosis.
B. Refer the client to a meal delivery program.
C. Identify environmental hazards in the home.
D. Arrange transportation for the client to follow-up appointments.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Identifying environmental hazards in the client's home is the priority during the initial visit with an older adult living alone. This action is crucial to prevent accidents, falls, and ensure the client's safety. While educating the client about their medical diagnosis, referring them to a meal delivery program, and arranging transportation for follow-up appointments are essential, addressing environmental hazards takes precedence as it directly impacts the client's immediate safety and well-being.

3. A nurse is teaching a client who is at risk for developing osteoporosis. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse make?

A. Walk for at least 30 minutes each day
B. Avoid sunlight exposure
C. Take vitamin B12 supplements
D. Increase calcium intake to 1,500 mg per day

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to increase calcium intake to 1,500 mg per day. Adequate calcium intake is essential for maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Walking for at least 30 minutes each day is beneficial for overall health but is not as directly related to osteoporosis prevention as calcium intake. Sunlight exposure is important for vitamin D synthesis, which is necessary for calcium absorption, so avoiding sunlight exposure would not be recommended. Vitamin B12 supplements are not directly related to bone health or osteoporosis prevention, so this would not be the most appropriate recommendation.

4. What are the key differences between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia?

A. Hypoglycemia: Sweating, trembling; Hyperglycemia: Frequent urination, thirst
B. Hypoglycemia: Increased thirst; Hyperglycemia: Sweating, confusion
C. Hypoglycemia: Increased appetite; Hyperglycemia: Blurred vision
D. Hypoglycemia: Dizziness; Hyperglycemia: Low blood pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hypoglycemia typically presents with sweating and trembling, while hyperglycemia is characterized by frequent urination and thirst. Therefore, the correct key differences between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are that hypoglycemia includes symptoms like sweating and trembling, while hyperglycemia involves symptoms such as frequent urination and thirst. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately represent the characteristic symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, as stated in the question.

5. A nurse is preparing to administer a rectal suppository to a school-age child. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

A. Insert the suppository 1 cm into the rectum
B. Insert the suppository 2 cm into the rectum
C. Insert the suppository past the anal sphincters
D. Insert the suppository using two fingers

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Insert the suppository past the anal sphincters.' When administering a rectal suppository, it is essential to insert it past the anal sphincters to ensure proper placement and absorption. Choices A and B are incorrect because the suppository should be inserted further than just 1 or 2 cm into the rectum to reach the optimal absorption site. Choice D is incorrect as using two fingers is not necessary and may cause discomfort to the child.